Joni Lynne Runge

This is for everyone who will never know Joni Lynne Runge Lewellin. Born in Nevada, Iowa June 10, 1976.

The early times were spent in Maxell Iowa – where she went to school. Lots of good times were had on the country roads of Story County. The towns were actually too small to do much partying.

Julie Ann Carney Runge- her mother was fortunate to spend her last days with Joni. Joni and her mom were very close and had a special relationship.  Joni’s Grandparents were possible the most influential in her life. They did co-parenting for many hears of Joni’s teen years. Joni’s love for her grandparents was a leading force in her life.  Their passing was one of the hardest things had to work through.

Joni is survived by her mother, two brothers Jason, and Jared, one sister Misty, two nephews Jordan and Blake.

In most of her history - She was first and always a mother – the love she had for her boys knew no bounds.  From the very difficult pregnancy with Taylor until the day Justin II was brought home. Her every thought and prayer were about and for her boys.  Through the difficult times through all of the joy and laughter was her connection to her boys.  She would often make sure you knew “I love my kids, man I really do- they are my life-I’m so proud of them.”

To the very special relationship she had with her husband Justin Lewellin-the original.  Boy did she love her husband- from early days in Iowa when they met, until her last day.  Many, Many times she would say (usually with an expletive) “ I love your son, I’ve loved him almost my whole life BUT sometimes he just makes me so mad.”  Again, through the difficult time and through every adventure they were by each other’s side.  Their journey started in Iowa, but her home was Arizona.  It was a major - major event last year when she actually left the state for an Iowa visit. During that visit she made it back to her hometown Maxwell and Nevada-also Davenport where the bulk of the family was, and finally the Missouri family- then as quick as possible back to Arizona.

Arizona is where she lived, worked and loved.  About Friends- If you were lucky enough to be her friend, she loved you the same way as family- deep and true. Friendships lasting all her days in Arizona. What a blessing to have great friends in your life and to share all life’s memories- and not important laughter.

The extended family – well that’s hard to define she married into the Burke/Lewellin- which only grew and grew over the years. Father-in Law Steve- she loved him most of all and was devastated with his passing in 2022, she had spent most of her adult life as his daughter-in law. Mother-in- Teresa- brother-in-law Josh, and sister-in-law Jackie to start.  Then the Next generation -most of which she helped raise nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. In all cases her door was open to them all.  The extended family included The Burke Clan- three uncles, 9 cousins, 12- 2nd cousins, and now both 3rd and 4th cousins.  Who all enjoyed spending time with Aunt Joni and Uncle Jud.

She was excited to have her great nieces and nephews (Mikey, Luke and Brooklyn) refer to her are Grama Joni. Another example - her love of children was always utmost important to her.  She often mentioned that she wondered how old she would be before, or rather IF, one of her boys would make her a grandmother.

Whether you were family, friend or acquaintance hopefully, the impression on your life made by Joni will last the rest of your days.  Rest in peace with the angels Jone Lynne Runge Lewellin.

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